For diving professionals, changing technology can mean more than convenience: It can also be a way to stay safe while performing difficult jobs. Along those lines, the role of ROVs may change, but their place in the diving industry seems to stand firm. In the most recent issue of Underwater Magazine, a professional from the company VideoRay described how the attitude toward these remote systems has changed over the years.
The company's vice president of sales and marketing, Chris Gibson, told the source about the relationship between human operators and their diving robot counterparts. According to him, the changes have altered how divers think of these systems, and the benefits of using them are now more apparent.
"We rarely run into situations where divers feel the ROV will replace them," Gibson said. "Instead drivers look at ROVs as a way to better understand their work environment. ROVS help divers prepare better, making them more efficient and most importantly, significantly improving workplace safety."
"The role of ROVs may change, but their place in the diving industry seems to stand firm."
Changes in approved practices could also alter how divers think of the ROV. This June, the International Marine Contractors Association announced a revision to a related safety guidance document.
In a statement supporting it, the organization's technical director, Richard Benzie, explained the necessity of vehicle maintenance, as well as supplying adequate staff for vehicle deployment and use. This focus shows another shift in focus when it comes to the role of the humans who work with this technology.
With insurance for ROV systems, operators may have some additional reassurance about their risky jobs for future work. The new changes can make it even more important to find an insurance solution that reflects the new marketplace and attitudes.